YAMAHA MUSIC EDUCATION SYSTEM

About Yamaha:

The Yamaha philosophy for music education is based on the belief that everyone has the potential to develop musical ability. Yamaha believes that everyone has the capacity to create, perform and enjoy one's own music, and that through this joy of music one can enjoy a richer life.

In the 1950's, a research team of excellent teachers, physicians, psychologists and musicians were brought together to develop a new and effective way of teaching music. Through much discussion, research and experimentation, a unique and remarkable education system now known as the Yamaha Music Education System (YMES) has evolved. The four main characteristics of the Yamaha Education System are:

Timely Instruction - Students are trained in musical skills according to their developmental stage in life. For example, research has shown that the ear's auditory capacity develops most rapidly between the ages of four and six and that finger muscles develop most rapidly between the ages of seven and twelve. It is for this reason that in the Junior Music Course (for four - five year olds) emphasis is placed on developing the ear rather than concentrating only on keyboard performance skills.

Comprehensive Musical Training - Students are trained to be able to perform on an instrument, but are also trained in the fundamentals of good musicianship (aural and rhythmic skills) through activities such as singing in solfege and playing in ensembles. One of the goals of YMES is to develop an appreciation of music as well as the ability to express and create it.

Group Lessons - Group lessons are a very effective way to achieve comprehensive musical training. Students can sing with others and perform in various kinds of ensembles. Students are motivated by their peers, and develop confidence through regular in-class performance in front of a friendly and familiar audience.

Systematic Education Program - Through extensive research and experimentation Yamaha has developed its own materials, including texts and teaching aids. These materials are constantly being reviewed and upgraded by the Yamaha Music Foundation. Yamaha instructors are specially trained in the philosophy and methodology of the YMES at teacher training seminars held on a regular basis.

Queen's Community Music was excited to bring the Yamaha Music Education System to Kingston in Fall 2009. Please visit the links below for specific course details.

Full Year Yamaha Courses:

The following full year courses run between September, 2018 - June, 2019, over the Fall, Winter and Spring Terms: